Election 2014: Groundwork done for 2017

Rawiri Waititi is ready to tackle his wife's list of domestic chores.

Buoyed by running second, Labour man in Waiariki eyes next election

The surprise second placegetter of the Waiariki race is hoping to challenge again in three years.

Labour Party candidate Rawiri Waititi spent Saturday night at Te Kaha Resort with 300 friends and family as he watched his inaugural campaign into politics reap 4965 votes, losing to Te Ururoa Flavell but edging past Mana Movement's Annette Sykes, who got 4482 votes.

"We're really happy with the result, being the newest between the three of us and really competitive for the seat. It sets the prospect up very well for the next election," he said.

"I'm hoping this is a six-year campaign. At the end of the day it's up to the party whether they choose me again or not but I will definitely put my hand up. I still believe I have something to offer on a representation level."

He congratulated Mr Flavell on receiving more than 7000 votes, but said most voters didn't choose him as their MP.

"There were 9000 votes against him and I think it's something Waiariki needs to look at.

"Unfortunately Annette and I fought for those votes and Te Ururoa was able to get back in. But I wish him the best. It's a big job ahead and he will be going in there as a lone voice in a National-led Government, which is what it's looking likely to be."

Mr Waititi said he learned a lot of lessons and was proud of how the Vote, Kapa, Vote, involving kapa haka groups having their say at the polls, had gone viral.

But it's back to life as he knew it pre-election in his Eastern Bay home of Cape Runaway.

"I'm mowing my laws, starting today. My wife has a big list of work for me. I'm also going to spend a lot more time with my family. My wife is due to have a baby in three weeks and has been the backbone of the whole campaign so I'm lucky to not only of had the best campaign manager in the country but a wonderful wife as well."

NZ Independent Coalition candidate Pat Spellman received 265 votes. The iwi radio host in Tauranga could not be reached for comment.